Lexington, Kentucky experienced significant damage from Hurricane Helene, particularly affecting Michler’s Florist and its popular Kentucky Native Cafe, located behind the florist. Early on Friday morning, wind gusts associated with the hurricane uprooted the largest Hackberry tree on the property, causing it to collapse onto the vine-covered frames of two historic greenhouses.
The destruction included damage to the outdoor kitchen and serving area of the cafe, which is favored by locals for its craft beer and food. The cafe, often referred to as a quiet oasis in Lexington, is adorned with lights strung among trees, creating an urban woodland garden atmosphere at night.
Owner Robin Michler confirmed that cleanup efforts began promptly on Saturday after the hurricane’s impact, stating, “Our priority is to clean up, sort through the pieces and salvage what we can.” Discussions regarding potential rebuilding will take time, as the focus remains on recovery.
Despite the damage, Michler’s Florist and the cafe continue to operate during regular business hours. To accommodate patrons while repairs are underway, the cafe has shifted service to a winter window inside its largest surviving greenhouse. Additionally, plans for the upcoming Last Monday Reading Series featuring authors Silas House and David Arnold will proceed as scheduled.
The damaged greenhouse structures have significant historical value. The main structure, built in the 1920s, is the larger of the two affected, while the second one dates back to 1907 and was primarily utilized for native perennials. An online post expressed sentiments about the loss, encouraging patrons to “bear with us as we feel our way through these spaces” and acknowledging the absence of shade from the old Hackberry tree.
Michler’s Florist has been a key part of the Lexington community since its establishment in 1901, representing a fifth-generation family business. The Kentucky Native Cafe opened in the spring of 2015 and recently received approval for the remodel of a two-story office building on High Street, intended for a bakery to enhance the dining experience.
